Changes implemented by NASCAR over the years to attract lost fans are indeed proving effective. However, despite NASCAR’s efforts, there has been a decrease in fan interest. Several factors have contributed to this decline, including the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in broadcasting rights, which have impacted viewership. Nevertheless, NASCAR has introduced significant changes, such as the Chicago Street race last year, its first-ever street race. This not only reignited fan interest but also attracted overseas race drivers like Shane Van Gisbergen.
This year, many new entries have appeared, including Formula One driver Kamui Kobayashi, who raced at COTA with the 23XI Racing team. After the race, he shared insights about his debut in NASCAR and hinted at his future appearances in American motorsport racing.
Former F1 drivers spilled the beans of NASCAR race
During the race, Kobayashi engaged in a thrilling battle with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the No. 47 JTG Daugherty Chevrolet. The two drivers exchanged bumps and spins as they navigated the challenging turns of the circuit. The intensity of the competition was palpable, and fans watched in awe as these world-class drivers pushed their limits.
After the race, Kobayashi shared his thoughts about the spin to Frontstretch and said:
“I mean, he just hit me” @kamui_kobayashi on being spun by Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
Kobayashi also answers whether or not he will be back in NASCAR in 2024:
📹 @WyattGametime pic.twitter.com/06a6grS4sz
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) March 24, 2024
When asked about future entries in 2024 or beyond, Kobayashi denied having any specific plans but expressed openness to the idea if the opportunity arises. He also expressed appreciation for NASCAR and his supportive fans, concluding the conversation by expressing the joy he experienced during the NASCAR weekend. While he wasn’t the first driver to feature in NASCAR, several drivers have crossed over into American motorsports in the past.
From F1 to NASCAR
Formula 1 and NASCAR—two motorsport worlds that seem poles apart. Yet, occasionally, these worlds collide as F1 drivers venture into the American stock car racing scene
1. Jenson Button
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, has never shied away from new challenges. Since retiring from F1, he’s dabbled in various racing categories, including Super GT, the World Endurance Championship, and Extreme E. Now, Button is set to make his NASCAR Cup Series debut with Rick Ware Racing, partnering with Stewart Haas Racing. Keep an eye out for him at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) and other iconic tracks.
2. Kimi Räikkönen
Known as “The Iceman,” Kimi Räikkönen is no stranger to NASCAR. The 2007 F1 World Champion has previously dipped his toes into American stock car racing. During his F1 hiatus in 2011, he made a couple of NASCAR appearances. In 2022, he even raced in the Go Bowling at The Glen event, representing Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91 initiative. Räikkönen’s cool demeanor will be put to the test on the COTA grid alongside Button.
3. Juan Pablo Montoya
Juan Pablo Montoya, the Colombian firebrand, left McLaren midway through the 2006 F1 season. His destination? NASCAR. Montoya became a multi-time victor in the Cup Series and also secured a victory in the Xfinity Series. His aggressive driving style and determination made him a force to be reckoned with on the ovals. Montoya’s transition from F1 to NASCAR remains one of the most successful in recent memory.
4. Jacques Villeneuve
The 1997 F1 World Champion, Jacques Villeneuve, extended his racing career beyond the F1 paddock. After leaving Formula 1 in 2006, he turned his attention to the NASCAR Cup and Truck series. Villeneuve’s versatility allowed him to compete in multiple NASCAR events, leaving a lasting impression on both sides of the Atlantic. His journey exemplifies the allure of American stock car racing for international talents.
5. Mario Andretti and Dan Gurney
While not F1 World Champions, Mario Andretti and Dan Gurney deserve honorable mentions. Both drivers made significant impacts in F1 before venturing into NASCAR. Andretti, a versatile racer, conquered the Indy 500, F1, and NASCAR. Gurney, known for his engineering prowess, transitioned seamlessly between open-wheel racing and stock cars. Their stories highlight the crossroads where speed, skill, and passion intersect.
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